Irresistible Apple Hand Pies: A Cozy Delight Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a warm apple hand pie, fresh from the oven. Imagine biting into a flaky crust that crumbles just right, revealing a sweet, spiced apple filling that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in like hungry zombies, drawn by the promise of deliciousness.

These delightful little pastries aren’t just for dessert; they’re perfect for picnics, cozy movie nights, or when you simply need a pick-me-up. With every bite, you’re transported to Grandma’s kitchen, where love and butter were the secret ingredients.

The first time I made these apple hand pies, my kids declared me the “Pie Queen” for an entire week. They were so happy they even offered to do their chores without being asked!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your crust; opt for unbleached flour for better flavor.

• Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for a flaky texture; it’s essential in achieving that perfect crust.

• Granulated Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance out the flavors in both the crust and filling.

• Fresh Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for a nice contrast against the sweet filling.

• Cinnamon: A must-have spice that adds warmth and depth to your apple filling.

• Lemon Juice: It brightens up the apples and prevents browning; fresh is always best!

• Egg Wash: A mixture of beaten egg and water gives your pies that gorgeous golden color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Create the Dough: Start by mixing flour with sugar in a large bowl. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water gradually until it holds together.

Chill Out!: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps relax the gluten for extra flakiness.

Prepare the Filling: While waiting, peel and core your apples before slicing them into thin pieces. Toss with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

Roll Out That Dough!: After chilling, divide dough into halves. Roll one half on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a large cookie cutter or bowl.

Assemble Your Pies: Place a spoonful of apple filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork or pinch tightly to keep all that delicious goodness inside.

Bake Away!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each pie with egg wash and bake on parchment-lined trays for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Now you have beautiful apple hand pies ready to be devoured! The smell alone will have everyone gathering around like moths to a flame.

Enjoy these little pockets of joy hot from the oven or let them cool slightly before serving. Either way, they’ll be gone faster than you can say “apple pie”!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your pie dough in advance for a flakier texture. While it chills, cook the apple filling to enhance its flavor. Assemble the pies and bake until golden brown for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular apples for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp based on your sweetness preference. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

I remember the first time I made apple hand pies; my friends devoured them before I had a chance to try one! Their warm, buttery aroma filled the kitchen, creating an unforgettable memory.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pie crust for apple hand pies?

Absolutely! Store-bought crust saves time without sacrificing flavor and texture.

What apples are best for hand pies?

Granny Smith apples offer a great tartness, while Honeycrisp adds natural sweetness.

How do I prevent my apple filling from being too runny?

Thickening agents like cornstarch can help absorb excess moisture from the apples during baking.

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Apple Hand Pies

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Delight in every bite of these warm, flaky apple hand pies filled with sweet, spiced apples. Fresh from the oven, they are the perfect treat for any occasion—be it a cozy movie night or a picnic in the park. With their irresistible aroma and golden brown crust, these hand pies will transport you to Grandma’s kitchen. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, you’re sure to impress family and friends with this delightful dessert.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 medium fresh Granny Smith apples (peeled and sliced)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Create the Dough: Mix flour and sugar in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until dough holds together. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: Toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
3. Roll Out Dough: Divide chilled dough; roll out to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into circles.
4. Assemble Pies: Spoon filling onto half of each circle, fold over, and seal edges.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pie (85g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg